though the lens is an excellent performer, that fact that it's f4.0 is it's real limitation. you loose two stops of light compared to it's matched longer lens, the 14-35mm f2.0, and this makes a huge difference when the light is low. Why have a physically large lens, slightly smaller than a comparable fx sensor lens, that's a full stop slower? makes no sense. oly can't compete on high iso and even marketed that 4/3rds lenses are either smaller or faster. this one is nearly the same size and slower...

Love this lens! The clarity is amazing and like one of the other reviewers said, it is tough to go back to my standard lenses after using this one. The lens is heavy and can put quite a strain on the neck. It is great for capturing crazy angles in architecture photography.

July 19, 2011 by Bill

Great wide angle lens

Although I do not use this lens often it is good for situations where an ultra wide angle is desirable. It is probably best for landscape photography; I will also use it for large family gatherings around the table where this lens can truly fit everyone in. At the wider angles there is a noticable fisheye effect under certain conditions; but that is typical for any 7 mm lens. A good lens to have, but I would purchase the 14-35 and 35-100 Zuiko zoom lenses first.
Be careful with the lens; the surface does stick out quite a bit and can easily be scratched; it does NOT take any protective filters.

This is a great lens and will not waste a single pixel of your camera. To put anything less than the best is a waste of the large mega-pixel cameras, this lens will maximize the quality of every exposure. I find it hard to use any of my regular quality lenses after using this lens.